Overview The long-anticipated Hyundai Ioniq 9 is finally a reality, as this new three-row electric SUV is set to arrive as a 2026 model. Fully modern in every respect, the Ioniq 9 takes design cues from the fantastical Hyundai Seven concept and incorporates them into a new mid-size EV crossover aimed at the family market. The Ioniq 9 is similar in size to the popular three-row Hyundai Palisade SUV, not to mention its second cousin, the Kia EV9. Built on the Hyundai-Kia’s E-GMP platform, the Ioniq 9 features bold and futuristic exterior styling. The interior follows suit with a lounge-like atmosphere that can be configured for six or seven passengers. Three powertrains will initially be on offer: a rear-wheel-drive single-motor setup and two all-wheel-drive dual-motor versions with different overall power outputs. Many details are still pending, and official range estimates aren’t yet available, but Hyundai is targeting an optimistic 335 miles for the single-motor version. What’s New for 2026?Everything. The Ioniq 9 SUV EV is an all-new addition to Hyundai’s Ioniq lineup of vehicles. Hyundai says the Ioniq 9 will launch stateside in early 2025. Pricing and Which One to BuyThe price of the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 starts at $60,555 and goes up to $78,090 depending on the trim and options.S RWD$60,555SE AWD$64,365SEL AWD$67,920Performance Limited AWD$72,850Performance Calligraphy AWD$76,590Performance Calligraphy Design AWD$78,090Hyundai has released pricing for all trims in the 2026 Ioniq 9 lineup, but we aren’t sure what equipment comes standard on each one. When we learn more about each model’s features, we’ll update this story with a recommendation on which one to buy.Getting Started with EVsEV Motor, Power, and PerformanceThe 2026 Ioniq 9 will launch with a choice of three powertrains. The rear-wheel drive model uses a single 215-hp motor powering the rear axle, while the all-wheel drive ones adds a second electric motor located at the front axle. The Performance AWD model ramps things up with more powerful electric motors front and rear that combine for 422 horsepower. We don’t yet know the total power output of the non-Performance dual-motor versions. All models use a 110.3-kWh lithium-ion battery. The Ioniq 9’s suspension features self-leveling dampers, and a torque-vectoring system aims to improve handling and stability.0–60-MPH TimesThe Performance AWD models will be the quickest of the bunch, with Hyundai estimating that it requires just 5.2 seconds to hit 62 mph (or 4.9 seconds when equipped with 21-inch wheels). The Long-Range AWD has an estimated 62-mph time of 6.7 seconds, or 6.2 seconds with 19-inch wheels. Unsurprisingly, the Long-Range RWD model is the pokiest, requiring a claimed 9.4 seconds, or 8.4 seconds with 19-inch wheels, to get to 62 mph. Top speed for the AWD models is a claimed 124 mph. We’ll put the new Ioniq 9 to the test as soon as we get one and report our findings here. More on the Ioniq 9 SUVTowing and Payload CapacityIoniq 9 models sold in North America have a towing capacity of 5000 lbs. When in trailer mode, the vehicle can automatically detect the weight of the trailer and adjust the predicted range accordingly.Range, Charging, and Battery Life The projected EPA range estimate for the S RWD model with 19-inch wheels is 335 miles, according to Hyundai. The all-wheel drive models are said to offer 311 miles per charge. That seems a bit optimistic to us, but we’ll file our real-world findings as soon as we get one to test. The automaker claims the 110.3-kWh lithium-ion battery can be recharged from 10 to 80 percent in just 24 minutes on a properly operating 350-kW DC fast charger. We’ll update this section with range estimates for the all-wheel drive and Performance models as soon as the information becomes available. Interior, Comfort, and CargoHyundai is counting on the Ioniq 9’s unique interior to set it apart from the pack. The front seats employ the brand’s new Relaxation Seats with dynamic massage. The Ioniq 9 will offer a feature that allows the second-row seats to swivel to face the third row, but we’re not sure if that option will be offered in the U.S. The center console can slide back so that second-row passengers can access it, and doing so also creates a passthrough space between the front seats. Interior materials use sustainable materials including recycled PET (plastic), wool, synthetic faux leather, and suede. There are 22 cubic feet of cargo area behind the third row, and 46 cubic feet with it folded flat. The frunk (front trunk) provides 3 cubes in rear-wheel-drive models, and 2 cubes in AWD models.The Car and Driver DifferenceInfotainment and ConnectivityThe Ioniq 9’s modern design doesn’t end with the styling, as the tech has been optimized for modern EV drivers. There’s an advanced EV route planning software to help streamline finding chargers, a total of nine USB-C charging ports located throughout all three rows, and a standard 8-speaker audio system; a premium Bose 14-speaker system is available. A 12.0-inch instrument panel is joined by a center-mounted infotainment touchscreen. Hyundai’s Bluelink Connected Car Services are onboard, as are wireless charging and a digital key function. How to Buy and Maintain a CarSafety and Driver-Assistance FeaturesHyundai’s usual laundry list of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and automated emergency braking, is part of the Ioniq 9 package. For more information about the EV9’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance CoverageHyundai provides one of the best warranty plans in the industry, but starting with 2026 models there is no complimentary scheduled maintenance plan.
- Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- Battery is covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
As more information becomes available, we’ll update this story with more details about:
- Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
Source: caranddriver.com